Rockingham County | Greensboro AHEC

Debra Allen, ANP/GNP, is the nurse practitioner for the Rockingham County Health Department located in Wentworth, NC. One of the specialty clinics offered to patients of Rockingham County is the Asthma Clinic where Peter Gal, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP, FASHP, director of pharmacy research and education services for Greensboro AHEC, collaborates with Allen and other practitioners to provide care to asthma patients. For the past eleven years, Dr. Gal has provided his clinical services to the Asthma Clinic.

“Since starting the Asthma Clinic, Peter has provided expert, one on one care to asthma patients in need of a comprehensive care plan,” said Ms. Allen. “Before Peter began providing his clinical services, patients did not have access to such expertise or they had to travel out of town to receive such care. All referred patients have access to this clinic regardless of their ability to pay. The Asthma Clinic continues to grow with increased referrals from myself and the other practitioners due to its positive outcomes. Peter is able to diagnose quickly and pinpoint treatments specific for each patient. Also, patients are comfortable in sharing important information, such as smoking habits, with Peter because he is approachable and non-judgmental.”

Peter Gal, director of pharmacy research and education services for Greensboro AHEC, with a patient

Allen added, “Peter is often able to provide patients with samples of medications which is very helpful to our uninsured patients. He also helps patients utilize the Prescription Assistance Program when needed. These actions have had a positive impact on the health care costs for our community by helping patients manage their disease better and avoid visits to the local Emergency Department. Peter always encourages patients to take control of their disease. He has positively influenced each of the practitioners at the Rockingham County Health Department by improving our practice with asthma patients. He is a wonderful resource to the practitioners and to all of the clinical staff. Peter is a phenomenal clinician and his expertise is priceless. Peter, along with Greensboro AHEC, has touched the lives of many in Rockingham County.”

Gal continues to provide his clinical services to the Asthma Clinic on a monthly basis. He follows 50-60 cases per year.